The Hub for Impactful and Engaged Research (HIER) is a coordinating network connecting Erasmus University Rotterdam, Delft University of Technology, Leiden University, Erasmus Medical Center, and Leiden University Medical Center to strengthen civic engagement across the province of South Holland.
While a rich landscape of civic initiatives already exists, it remains fragmented, leaving gaps between research institutions and the communities they serve. HIER exists to bridge these gaps. HIER is the coordinating network that connects people, knowledge, and amplifies impact. In line with the EUR Strategy 2030, the Hub advocates for a shift toward institutions of knowledge not only working for society, but with it.
Supporting Engaged Research
With a diverse team of experts, HIER drives this shift through three interconnected pillars, enabling researchers and educators to do impactful and engaged research.
- Institutional Embedding: Rooting civic engagement into institutional processes and culture, so that participatory research is valued and supported.
- Capacity Building: Cultivating essential skills in researchers and educators to engage responsibly and effectively with diverse communities and stakeholders.
- Regional Ecosystem Development: Strengthening connections between local stakeholders and academic institutions, creating an interconnected knowledge network that serves everyone.
'HIER provides EUR staff with support to engage non-academic partners in a responsible manner — from idea to implementation — in research, education and public outreach activities. It is an indispensable service for Open InnovationNetworks.'
Arwin van Buuren
Strategic Dean Impact & Engagement
Connect with us
Are you interested in learning more about the Hub or do you need support with your project? Your contact point at EUR will be happy to assist you in finding the appropriate resources and networks that match your needs and ambitions.
Contact HIER if you are:
- curious about civic engagement but not sure where to start;
- developing or exploring a citizen science, participatory, or community-based research project;
- looking for guidance on responsible engagement practices;
- seeking connections to civic partners, neighbourhood networks, or interdisciplinary collaborators in the region;
- interested in funding opportunities or institutional support for engaged research.
You are welcome to join HIER and receive updates about the network.
HIER Team
Chiara Stenico
Engaged Research Officer | Site Coordinator
- Email address
- hier@eur.nl
